Neckties in place, resumés in hand, and smiles on their faces, students from Cecil's School of Technology met with potential employers last Thursday morning. By later that afternoon, at least one student had landed a job interview. The school's 10th annual job fair, which brought 73 companies, organizations, and military representatives to the school, is designed to help students learn about the job interview process. It's also a place for them to find employment.

"Today is such a great experience for all of our students. I got an email already from one of our seniors in the Cisco (computer) program who already got a call for an interview with Ikea," said School Counselor Jennifer Bird, following the job fair. Bird spends months preparing for the job fair. She contacts potential employers and asks them to reserve the day. Within the school, she and other staff also help students create their resume'. She also teaches job hunt skills such as appropriate attire and a firm handshake. Donavon Stout from Ruppert Landscape of Pa., said he was hoping to hire students from the school's Natural Resources program. "We are actively hiring. I'm looking for drive, ambition, and a good work ethic. I'm looking for people not afraid to spend a little time in the trenches," said Stout. Danny Cooper was recruiting for the Maryland Army National Guard. He said he was seeking candidates with a "good sense about themselves." "The first thing we do is test them. We want them to be educated with no big law violations. We want solid citizen soldiers who are in good shape," said Cooper. Heavy Industrial Maintenance student Austin Holland dressed in his best, a suit. "I'm hoping to land a job," said Holland. Nathan Brumit is studying Construction Trades. "I'm liking Cecil County Government and Bigger Innovations. I feel like I was prepared for this," said Brumit. Justin Ragan, who was recruiting for M Davis company said he was seeking welding, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical trades students. "We want people who are willing to grow, learn, and advance. They (the students) are very professional. They know what they're going for and they are asking the right questions," said Ragan. He said the company currently has CCST grads on the payroll. Mason Blethaen is already thinking ahead. Blethaen said he's already looking at which company will offer him a 401K program. "I don't want to spend my whole life working. I've seen a lot of companies with good things to offer," said Blethaen. Student Seth Hudson has set his sights on getting hired by Quantum Controls. "I like them. I'll eventually get a job there," said Hudson who is studying Heavy Industrial Maintenance. Ann Murphy is the Administrator at Calvert Manor Healthcare Center. She said she was searching for students who are focused and serious. She said she's been to the job fair before. "They are very nice kids. They all seem well prepared," Murphy said. She was looking to hire students from the allied health and culinary programs. Michael Morgan, owner of Heartwood Landscaping and Tree Services has five jobs available. "The job market is tight right now. We have five jobs available," said Morgan, who was prepared to offer the right candidates $12-$14 an hour to start. "Very good candidates come from here," said Morgan.